01 -
Preheat oven to 175°C. Line a 25x38 cm baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 -
In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs and granulated sugar until pale and volume has increased. Stir in vanilla extract.
03 -
Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold dry mixture into the egg batter until just combined.
04 -
Add milk to the batter and mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
05 -
Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
06 -
While still warm, invert cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with cocoa powder. Carefully roll cake with towel and allow to cool completely.
07 -
In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
08 -
Unroll cooled sponge gently. Spread whipped cream evenly over cake, then scatter cherry filling or fresh cherries on top.
09 -
Roll cake back up tightly without squeezing out the filling.
10 -
Coat the exterior with a thin layer of whipped cream. Press dark chocolate shavings over the surface. Pipe rosettes of whipped cream on top and finish with maraschino cherries.
11 -
Refrigerate cake for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.